Sunday, May 31, 2015

In the history of the Grand Ole Opry, June has been one of the more active months. Here is a look at the historical and important events that have taken place at the Grand Ole Opry, or regarding Opry members, during the month of June. June 17, 1910: Clyde Julian Foley, better known as Red Foley, was born in Blue Lick, Kentucky. Red joined the Grand Ole Opry in 1946, replacing Roy Acuff as the host of the Prince Albert Show. He stayed with the Opry until 1954, when he left Nashville and went to Springfield, Missouri as the host of the Ozark Jubilee. Red was one of the early members of the Country Music Hall of Fame. June 19, 1914: Lester Flatt was born in Overton County, Tennessee. Lester would become famous as a member of Bill Monroe's Bluegrass Boys, then later teaming up with Earl Scruggs. After a successful run, Lester and Earl split over the direction of their music, with Lester favoring a more traditional bluegrass sound. Lester formed The Nashville Grass, with Marty Stuart as a later member, and enjoyed great success on the bluegrass festival circuit. He was an Opry member until his death in 1979 and while on the Opry he traditionally hosted the Martha White portion. June 17, 1916: David Akeman, better known as Stringbean, was born in Anniville, Kentucky. Stringbean had been a steady musician and comedian for years on the Opry, but it was his role on Hee Haw that brought him the most fame. Stringbean died in November 1973 when he, along with his wife Estelle, were murdered upon returning home from an Opry appearance. June 28, 1924: George Morgan was born in Waverly, Tennessee. George spent several years in Ohio, calling Barberton his home. He was a star on the WWVA Wheeling Jamboree and came to Nashville and the Opry in 1948 as a replacement for Eddy Arnold. George would remain a popular Opry member until his death in 1975. On a historical note, George hosted the final segment on the Friday Night Opry prior to the move to the new Opry House in March 1974. Several decades after his death, he was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame. June 19, 1926: DeFord Bailey made his debut on the WSM Barn Dance. DeFord was a member of the Opry until he was fired in 1941 by George D. Hay. His song, "Pam American Blues" would often be the opening number on the Opry's early broadcasts. After he was fired from the Opry, DeFord remained bitter toward WSM and the Opry for many years and he rejected several invitations to return to the show. Finally on February 23, 1974 he returned to the Opry for their annual "Old Timer's Night." He was introduced by Roy Acuff and Minnie Pearl and he received a great ovation. He would return several more times to the Opry and made his final appearance in April 1982, several months before his death. DeFord is a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame.June 2, 1927: Former Grand Ole Opry member Carl Butler was born in Knoxville, Tennessee. Along with his wife Pearl, he had one of the biggest hits in country music history, "Don't Let Me Cross Over." Carl and Pearl were members of the Grand Ole Opry for several years and were instrumental in Dolly Parton's career. Carl passed away in September 1992.June 23, 1929: Value June Carter was born in Maces Springs, Virginia. She came to the Grand Ole Opry with her Mother Maybelle and sisters Helen and Anita in 1950. After coming to the Opry, she was married for a short time to fellow Opry member Carl Smith. While June was not much of a singer, she did have talent as a comedian and she often was teamed with Rod Brasfield and Jimmy Dickens. June 12, 1936: Dr. Humphrey Bate of the Possum Hunters died at the age of 61. After Uncle Jimmy Thompson, Dr. Bate is considered the 2nd original member of what is now called the Grand Ole Opry. In fact, many historians feel that he may actually have been the first rural performer featured on WSM. He was an important part of the early history of the Opry and his contributions are often overlooked today. June 13, 1936: Because of the size of the crowds, the Opry moves to the Dixie Tabernacle, located on Fatherland Street in East Nashville. While sounding impressive, the Tabernacle was actually a very primative facility with wooden benches, sawdust floors and no dressing rooms. It was basically an old barn that you had to open the sides in the summer to keep the air flowing through. But it did seat 3,500 and contributed to the growth of the Opry. June 5, 1937: Pee Wee King and his Golden West Cowboys joined the Grand Ole Opry. Pee Wee was one of the first professional entertainers to join the show and he helped to bring a more professional look to the show. The Golden West Cowboys were one of the sharpest groups around. Pee Wee had numerous disagreements with Opry founder George D. Hay, who felt that Pee Wee's group was not country enough and played instruments that had no business being played on the Opry. Pee Wee stayed at the Opry for a number of years before leaving the Opry and moving to Louisville, Kentucky to work in television, something that he could not talk WSM into doing. He would become famous for the "Tennessee Waltz" and was one of the early inductees into the Country Music Hall of Fame. After leaving the Opry as a member, he would continue to make numerous guest appearances. His autobiography, "Hell-Bent for Music" is excellent and I highly recommend the book. June 25, 1940: Republic Pictures releases the movie "Grand Ole Opry" which featured Roy Acuff, George D. Hay and Uncle Dave Macon. It was a basic movie for the times and while it was not academy award material, it offers a great look at an early Roy Acuff. June 5, 1943: The Opry moves to the Ryman Auditorium, where it would stay until March 1974. Over time, the Ryman would acquire the nickname "Mother Church of Country Music" and even today, many consider it the true home of the Opry and it is where the Opry enjoyed its greatest growth and what many have considered the golden years of the Opry. Since 1999, the Opry has returned each winter for a series of shows. June 6, 1944: Grant Turner started work at WSM as an announcer. Of course, this was also "D-Day." Over time, Grant would become known as the voice of the Opry and is probably the most famous announcer that the Opry has ever had. He would remain with the Opry until his death in October 1991. In 1981, he was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame. June 17, 1944: The Poe Sisters, Ruth and Nelle, joined the Grand Ole Opry. Their idols were the Delmore Brothers and George D. Hay would often refer to these sisters as the "female Delmore Brothers." The Poe Sisters performed regionally in the Northeast before coming to Nashville. Their time at the Opry was very short. They first left the Opry in 1945 when Ruth got married. They were gone for a few months, but then returned until August 1946, when they left for good. June 17, 1944: On the same night that the Poe Sisters became Opry members, future Opry member Rod Brasfield made his Opry debut.June 11, 1949: Hank Williams makes his Grand Ole Opry debut. The performance was one for the ages as Hank was called back for 6 encores after singing "Lovesick Blues." Jimmy Dickens would later say that Hank's performance that night was the greatest Opry appearance he has ever seen. June 12, 1954: Ferlin Husky became a member of the Opry. Ferlin was an Opry member until December 1964, when he was fired for failing to meet the required number of annual appearances. He would return to guest on the show. June 1, 1957: The Everly Brothers became members of the Grand Ole Opry. This was part of management's efforts to draw a younger audience to the show, which was suffering in attendance as a result of rock and roll. The Everly Brothers did not stay long as they were destined for bigger and better things. In 2001, they were elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame. June 13, 1959: Roy Drusky became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Roy came to the Opry from Atlanta and he would remain with the Opry until his death in September 2004. In my opinion, Roy had one of the smoothest voices in country music and was a terrific ballad singer. June 17, 1959: Opry member Loretta Lynn Morgan, better known as Lorrie, was born. June 14, 1961: Patsy Cline was seriously injured in an automobile accident in Nashville. It would take her 8 months to fully recover from the accident, which left a scar on her forehead. Because of that scar, Patsy would wear a wig just about every time she would perform.June 29, 1963: Opry member Jim Reeves made his final appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. Jim joined the Opry in 1955, coming to Nashville from the Louisiana Hayride. At the time he left, he felt that he had outgrown the Opry and was moving toward a more contemporary sound. June 8, 1964: Alton Delmore died at the age of 55 in Huntsville, Alabama. The Delmore Brothers joined the Opry in 1933 and their influence among brother acts is still felt today. The Delmores left the Opry after a dispute with George D. Hay. In 2001, they were elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame. June 12, 1965: Tex Ritter became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. When Tex joined, he was at the tail end of his great western movie career and many questioned why he would want to join the Opry and why the Opry would have him. Tex surprised everyone by becoming one of the Opry's most loyal and popular members. He also co-hosted a late night radio program on WSM with Ralph Emery. Tex, who was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1964, was also one of the early leaders and founding members of the Country Music Association. Tex passed away in January 1974.June 13, 1965: For many years, this was listed as the date that Connie Smith and Bob Luman became members of the Grand Ole Opry. What is interesting is that Connie has been quoted many times about her first night as a member. However, June 13, 1965 was actually a Sunday and in going through the Grand Ole Opry records that I have, Connie's first Opry appearance as a member was actually September 18, 1965, which also happens to be the date that the Opry now recognizes. As with many dates in the Opry's history, things tend to change based on the poor records that were kept. Either way, and even though Connie left the Opry for a few years, this September Connie will be honored for 50 years of Opry membership.June 20, 1965: Ira Louvin, the older brother of Charlie Louvin, was killed in a care accident. One of the greatest duos in country music history, they were finally elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2001. Ira and Charlie had broken up prior to the accident, so while Charlie was a member of the Opry, Ira was not at the time of his death.June 25, 1966: Grand Ole Opry member Willie Nelson made his final appearance as an Opry member. Willie joined the cast in November 1964. As many of you know, Willie felt he wasn't being accepted in Nashville and left to return to Texas were he developed a new look and sound. Even though he left as a member, he would come back for guest appearances. June 1, 1967: Stu Phillips became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be his 48th year as an Opry member. Stu, along with Hank Snow and Terri Clark, are the only Opry members to have been born in Canada. While Stu never had that career hit record, he has always remained a loyal member of the Opry, and a fine ballad singer. June 28, 1974: Paul McCartney is introduced on the stage of the Opry by Roy Acuff. The former Beatle did not perform and was in Nashville as part of an extended vacation. June 28, 1975: Opry member George Morgan makes his final Grand Ole Opry appearance, which was also his 51st birthday. Included on that night was his daughter Lorrie and they did a duet together, "Smile For Me."June 17, 1978: Marty Robbins drove his new custom-made Panther Deville automobile onto the stage of the Opry. In a moment of good humor, Roy Acuff found a security guard who gave Marty a parking ticket. June 20, 1980: Boxcar Willie made his debut on the Grand Ole Opry. Boxcar would later become an Opry member. June 19, 1982: Riders In The Sky joined the cast of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be their 33rd year as Opry members and they remain the only cast members to specialize in western music. June 9, 1984: Lorrie Morgan, following in the footsteps of her father, became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be her 31st year as an Opry member. Lorrie first appeared on the Opry at the age of 13 and sang, "Paper Roses."June 18, 1984: Former Opry member Paul Howard passed away in Little Rock, Arkansas at the age of 75. He joined the Opry in 1942 and performed with his group, the Arkansas Cotton Pickers. Grady Martin and Hank Garland were members of his band, which played western music. Paul stayed with the Opry through the 1940s and he did return for the reunion shows. June 20, 1986: Whitey Ford, The Duke of Paducah, died at the age of 85. Whitey joined the Grand Ole Opry in 1942 and would remain an Opry member until 1959. Like others, he would return and make guest appearances after leaving as a member. While at the Opry, he and Minnie Pearl were the featured comedians on the Prince Albert portion of the Opry. However, he had a contract dispute with the sponsor and was taken off that portion of the Opry and replaced by Rod Brasfield. In October 1986, shortly after his death, Whitey was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame. June 10, 1988: Herman Crook died in a Nashville hospital at the age of 89. Herman was a harmonica player and a part of the Crook Brothers, the last true string band to be featured on the Opry. Herman was also the last living link to the start of the Opry, coming to the show in 1926. Over the years, as the various string bands were merged, the Crook Brothers would have various members, but Herman was always there. For the majority of their final years on the Opry, the Crook Brothers backed up the square dancers. After Herman's death, the Crook Brothers name was no longer used and the string band, led by Earl White was simply called the Opry Square Dance Band. June 10, 1988: Ricky Van Shelton joined the Grand Ole Opry. Now retired, Ricky has been an Opry member for 27 years. June 11, 1988: Patty Loveless joined the cast of the Grand Ole Opry. At one time, Patty was part of the Wilburn Brothers television show and a part of Porter Wagoner's outfit. Many times she would talk on how much Porter influenced her careere and on the night she joined, it was Porter who handled the induction. June 24, 1989: Garth Brooks makes his first appearance at the Opry. Garth would make several more appearances before becoming an Opry member the following year. June 2, 1990: Mike Snider became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This is his 25th year as an Opry member, for which I am sure he will be recognized for. Mike is not only a popular comedian, but he leads a great string band that plays the type of music that the Opry was founded on. June 7, 1991: Alan Jackson became a member of the Opry. This will be his 24th year as an Opry member. I wish I could say that Alan has been a great and loyal Opry member over the years, but sadly that is not the case. June 14, 1991: Future Opry member Clint Black makes his Grand Ole Opry debut. June 15, 1991: Minnie Pearl makes her last appearance associated with the Opry. She performed at an Opry sponsored show in Joliet, Illinois. 2 days later, she suffered a massive stroke that would end her performing days. June 3, 1994: The Ryman Auditorium reopens for the first time since the building was renovated as Garrison Keillor's Prairie Home Companion was broadcast live from the auditorium. After the Opry left in 1974, the building was left basically empty and as it was when the Opry left until Gaylord Entertainment made the decision to renovate the building. It is now one of Nashville's treasures and the decision by Gaylord might have been the best decision they ever made.June 3, 1994: Former Grand Ole Opry member Wally Fowler passed away at the age of 77. Wally came to Nashville in 1948 with his Oak Ridge Quartet. He was a part of the Opry until 1950. The Oak Ridge Quartet were regulars on the Prince Albert portion of the show. Over time, the Oak Ridge Quartet would become the Oak Ridge Boys and the focus of their music would switch from gospel to country. June 4, 1994: Former Opry member Zeke Clements died at the age of 82. Zeke came to the Opry in the 1930s as a member of the Bronco Busters, which was led by Texas Ruby. June 17, 1994: Sarah Wilson of Sarie and Sallie, died at the age of 97. Sarie and Sallie were Opry members from 1934 to 1939. No, their real names were not Sarie and Sallie, but actually Edna Wilson and her sister Margaret Waters. June 19, 1999: Pete Fisher became the new general manager of the Grand Ole Opry. It is very hard to believe but Pete has been at the Opry for 16 years, making him one of the longest tenured general managers that the Opry has had. June 10, 2000: The Grand Ole Opry introduced a new Opry backdrop. The new state of the art lighting replaced the old red barn that in various forms had been used since the Opry House opened in 1974. It was reported at the time that the old backdrop was being donated to the Country Music Hall of Fame, but if it was, it has never been put on display. June 17, 2000: The Opry begins streaming its shows live on the internet, giving those around the world the opportunity to listen to the Opry. For many, it was the first chance to listen to the show without static. June 14, 2003: While Trace Adkins was performing on the Opry, Jimmy Dickens came out with a ladder and asked Trace if he would like to become the Opry's newest member. June 12, 2004: Terri Clark became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be her 11th year as an Opry member. She is one of only three members in the history of the Opry to come from Canada. June 9, 2007: Mel Tillis is introduced by his daughter Pam as the Opry's newest member. This will be his 8th year as an Opry member, although he had been a part of the Opry previously as a member of Porter Wagoner's Wagonmasters. Back during that time period, there is the belief that Mel was asked to become a member of the Opry, accepted, and then backed out. He even made it into one edition of the Opry's History Picture Book. June 6, 2008: The 4 Guys make a guest appearance on the Opry, which was their first appearance since being fired from the cast eight years earlier. This was also their last Opry appearance. June 23, 2009: Montgomery Gentry became members of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be their 6th year as Opry members. They were brought to the show upon the recommendation of Charlie Daniels, who joined the cast the previous year. June 15, 2013: Patty Loveless is honored on her 25th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Vince Gill was the host and together they closed the night with "Go Rest High On That Mountain."June 6, 2014: Grand Ole Opry member Jimmy C Newman made his last appearance as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Jimmy had been an Opry member since August 1956. He passed away on June 21, 2014 after a short illness.

Thursday, May 21, 2015

As we get ready to celebrate and honor those this Memorial Day weekend, the Grand Ole Opry has posted the schedule for the two shows this weekend, the Friday Night Opry and Saturday's Grand Ole Opry. In looking at the line-ups, Friday stands out as the better of the two nights this weekend. The Friday Night Opry will feature Opry members John Conlee, Mike Snider, Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers, Connie Smith, Lorrie Morgan, Riders In The Sky, Jeannie Seely, Steve Wariner, Jesse McReynolds and the Oak Ridge Boys. That is ten Opry members all together. The only three guest artists on the line-up are Love and Theft, Sarah Darling and Jamey Johnson, three of the more frequent Opry guests so far this year. A few of the Opry members scheduled on Friday night will also be part of Saturday's show, a group that includes Jeannie Seely, Mike Snider, Riders In The Sky and Lorrie Morgan. Other Opry members scheduled are The Whites, Jan Howard and Bobby Osborne. Jamey Johnson will be joining them, along with Greg Bates, Sara Haze, Exile and the ever frequent Chris Janson. It is really nice to see Lorrie Morgan set for both shows again this weekend. This makes two weekends in a row for Lorrie and she is also set for a few more Opry shows in the coming weeks. Are we seeing a change in Lorrie and more Opry shows for her? It would be nice as she does bring light and talent to the Opry stage. Despite the comments by Mike Snider last weekend, he is back for both shows, including hosting a segment on Saturday night. It would appear that whatever comments he was making were meant to be in good humor, although I still think there was something that brought it on. Jan Howard makes it for a 2nd weekend in a row. It seems like since the first of the year, her appearances have really been cut down, so it is nice to see her back. A couple of Opry members are still missing. Jean Shepard still has not made an appearance in 2015 and with the note on her facebook page that she was feeling better, it was hoped that she would be back soon. And Jim Ed Brown has been missing for almost a month. Hopefully it is not health related. There was a picture of him on his facebook page at the Hall of Fame with his family and based on the description, I was led to believe that it was taken this past week. As I said, it looks like Friday is the better night this weekend and I will be listening for sure, sitting out by the campfire with WSM on the air. Friday May 227:00: John Conlee (host); Love and Theft; Mike Snider7:30: Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers (host); Connie SmithIntermission8:15: Lorrie Morgan (host); Riders In The Sky; Jeannie Seely; Jamey Johnson8:45: Steve Wariner (host); Jesse McReynolds; Oak Ridge BoysSaturday May 237:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Greg Bates; The Whites7:30: Mike Snider (host); Sara Haze; ExileIntermission8:15: Riders In The Sky (host); Jan Howard; Jamey Johnson; Opry Square Dancers8:45: Lorrie Morgan (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Chris JansonAnd now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from five years ago this weekend, May 21 & 22, 2010. The Friday Night Opry took place at the Ryman Auditorium while Saturday's Grand Ole Opry was performed at the War Memorial Auditorium. Friday May 217:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy C Newman; The Whites7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jesse McReynolds; Jason Michael CarrollIntermission8:15: Bill Anderson (host); Joey+Rory; Gary Mule Deer8:45: Jim Ed Brown (host); Stonewall Jackson; Jack Greene; Mountain HeartSaturday May 227:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jim Ed Brown; The Bowling Family7:30: John Conlee (host); George Hamilton IV; Laura Bell BundyIntermission8:15: Charley Pride (host); Jan Howard; Riders In The Sky; Opry Square Dancers8:45: Bill Anderson (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Kathy MatteaAnd from ten years ago this weekend, May 20 & 21, 2005: Friday May 207:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Connie Smith; Billy Walker; George Canyon8:00: Jim Ed Brown (host); Mel McDaniel; Del McCoury Band8:30: Mike Snider (host); Jack Greene; Calvin Gilmore9:00: Bill Anderson (host); The Whites; Rebecca Lynn Howard9:30: John Conlee (host); Osborne Brothers; Neal McCoySaturday May 211st show6:30: Mike Snider (host); Connie Smith; Jimmy C Newman; Hal Ketchum7:00: Bill Anderson (host); Charlie Daniels Band; Andy Griggs; Erika Jo; Mountain Heart8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Charlie Walker; Jeannie Seely; The Whites; Opry Square Dancers8:30: Vince Gill (host); Mel McDaniel; Del McCoury Band2nd show9:30: Mike Snider (host); Hal Ketchum; Connie Smith; Andy Griggs10:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Jimmy C Newman; Billy Walker; Mountain Heart10:30: Vince Gill (host); Jack Greene; Charlie Daniels Band; Opry Square Dancers11:00: Bill Anderson (host); The Whites; Erika Jo11:30: Jeannie Seely (host); Mel McDaniel; Del McCoury BandFor this week's featured line-up, here is the running order of the Grand Ole Opry from 67 years ago this weekend, Saturday May 22, 1948:7:30: American Ace CoffeeRoy Acuff (host): We Planted Roses on Our Darling's GraveTommy Magness: Cacklin' HenAnnie Lou and Danny: We're Making Money on the FarmJimmy Riddle: Silver BellsRoy Acuff: Unloved and UnclaimedUncle Dave Macon and Dorris: Give Me Back the Money I Paid for a WifeJug Band: Polly Wolly DoodleRoy and Gang: The Great Speckled BirdSonny Day: Lost IndianAnnie Lou and Danny: Little Green ValleyOswald: Behind Those Walls of GreyRoy and Gang: Were You There8:00: PurinaEddy Arnold (host): Texarkana BabyBill Monroe: Blue Moon of KentuckyBradley Kincaid: Two Little OrphansOklahoma Wranglers: Cool WaterEddy Arnold: Don't That Moon Look LonesomeJamup and Honey: JokesZeke Clements: Little Rock ArkansasBill Monroe: I'm Working on a BuildingCrook Brothers: Black Mountain RagEddy Arnold: I'll Hold You in My Heart8:30: Warren Paint & Color Co. Ernest Tubb (host): Don't Flirt With MeLew Childre: Put on Your Old Grey BonnetPaul Howard: Breaking It Off a Little Too FarString Beans: Roll in My Sweet Baby's ArmsErnest Tubb: Seaman's BluesGrandpa Jones: Riding on That TrainRobert Lunn: I'm a Man Not a MousePossum Hunters: Take Your Foot Out of the MudErnest Tubb: Daisey Mae9:00: Royal CrownRoy Acuff (host): Sweeter Than the FlowersJimmy Riddle: My Little GalYork Brothers: Look Before You LeapTexas Ruby: Hold on Little DoggieFruit Jar Drinkers: Ravins GapLonzo and Oscar: Cornbread and LassesCurly Fox: Deck of CardsRoy Acuff: Life's Railway to HeavenOswald: Weary Lonesome BluesTommy Magness: Smoky Mountain Rag9:30: Prince AlbertRed Foley (host): TelevisionOld Hickory Singers: Bicycle Built for TwoCowboy Copas: Tennessee WaltzMinnie Pearl: JokesRed Foley: I Love to Tell the StoryCowboy Copas: Signed Sealed and DeliveredRod Brasfield: JokesWally Fowler: Keep on the Firing LineRed Foley: Picking Up Pierces of a Broken HeartSquare Dancers: Blackberry Blossom10:00: WallriteBill Monroe (host) and Don: Molly and Ten BrooksBradley Kincaid: Blue Tail FlyBill and Doyle: Sweetheart You Done Me WrongQuartet: Remember the CrossBenny Martin: Down Yonder10:15: Weather HouseRoy Acuff (host): Not a Word from HomeUncle Dave Macon and Dorris: When You and I Were Young MaggieRoy Acuff: PoemGang: There's a Beautiful HouseJug Band: Lazy Day10:30: Fletcher WilsonTexas Ruby: It's Over ForeverCurly Fox (host): Down YonderYork Brothers: Bothered by the BluesCurly and Ruby: Someone More Lonesome Than You10:45: Martha WhiteMilton Estes (host): New Filipino BabyLew and String Beans: Foggy Mountain TopJimmy Selph: That Old MoonMilton Estes: I'll Fly Away11:00: Eddy Arnold SongbookEddy Arnold (host): Teardrops in My HeartGrandpa Jones: Rosa LeeGully Jumpers: Ricketts HornpipeEddy Arnold: You Only Want Me When You Are LonesomeEddy Arnold: Molly Darling11:15: Gaylock Seat CoversErnest Tubb (host): Our Last GoodbyeDot and Smokey: Golden RiverDrake Brothers: My Best to YouErnest Tubb: Yesterday's Tears11:30Lonzo and Oscar (host): Old Mother NatureCowboy Copas: Ain't Nobody Gonna Miss MeWally Fowler: I'm on My WayLonzo and Oscar: Poppin' Bubble Gum11:45Paul Howard (host): San Antonio RoseZeke Clements: Blue Mexico SkiesFruit Jar Drinkers: Just BecauseRobert Lunn: New River TrainPaul Howard: Please Don't LeaveWhat a show!!! And Roy Acuff on three different segments!!! And, even with all the artists and music, they got done on time. Back in those days, there was very little talk between the acts. They were quickly introduced and came out, did their song, and were gone. A lot different than today's Opry. Enjoy the Opry this weekend and may everyone have a safe and happy Memorial Day weekend.

It's hard to believe that it has been that long ago, but it was on May 21, 2006 that Billy Walker, his wife Bettie, bass player Charlie Lilly and guitarist Danny Patten died in a car accident on their way back from a show in Alabama. Billy joined the Grand Ole Opry in 1960 and was nicknamed "The Tall Texan." During his career that lasted more than 60 years, he had over 30 songs on the country charts. It's hard to believe but his only #1 was "Charlie's Shoes" in 1962. "Funny How Time Slips Away", which is often associated with Billy didn't even make it into the top 20. "Cross the Brazos at Waco" another classic made it to #2. In addition to his recording, he also hosted an early country syndicated country music show on television, "Country Carnival." Once in a while, RFD-TV will show it in rotation with episodes hosted by Del Reeves. I always thought Billy did a great job while at the Opry but like many other veterans, he saw his appearances cut back over his final decade at the Opry. Too bad as even at the age of 77, he still had that great voice and personality that shined on the Opry stage. To remember Billy Walker, here is a performance from Billy at the Grand Ole Opry.

Thursday, May 14, 2015

The Grand Ole Opry has posted the schedule for the two shows this weekend, the Friday Night Opry and Saturday's Grand Ole Opry. Also posted is next week's Tuesday Night Opry line-up.Looking at the shows this weekend, Opry member Lorrie Morgan is scheduled for both nights, and she will be hosting the final segment on both shows. As usual, it is nice to see Lorrie back on the Opry stage. In what I find as an interesting segment, on Friday night Lorrie will be hosting with Opry members Pam Tillis, Jan Howard and Jeannie Seely as her guests. I would not be surprised if there was some sort of group singing taking place. They are all friends and legends at the Opry. Also scheduled for both nights, and hosting segments, are Opry members John Conlee, Connie Smith and Riders In The Sky, with Opry member Mike Snider also set. Joining those members on Friday night will be Opry members Bobby Osborne and Terri Clark. What is interesting with Terri, and I am not sure if anyone else has noticed, is that on each of her appearances this year she has been scheduled for the first segment, each time hosted by John Conlee. And each time, she has done her wonderful John Conlee impression of "Rose Colored Glasses." Rounding out the Friday night line-up are guest artists Ashley Clark, Aaron Tippin and "Nashville" star Charles Esten. With the news that "Nashville" has been renewed on ABC for another season, we can expect a continued stream of actors from the show performing on the Opry. Joining those already mentioned on Saturday night will be Opry member Jesse McReynolds, along with guest artists Jackie Lee, Logan Brill, Charlie Nagatani, Love and Theft and Dailey & Vincent. What I find interesting in that group is Dailey & Vincent is listed as the only guests scheduled for the final segment with Lorrie. Love and Theft and Jackie Lee have made several Opry appearances this year, while Logan Brill will be making her Opry debut. For those interested, she is listed as a contemporary country artist.Friday May 157:00: John Conlee (host); Terri Clark; Mike Snider7:30: Connie Smith (host); Ashley Clark; Aaron TippinIntermission8:15: Riders In The Sky (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Charles Esten8:45: Lorrie Morgan (host); Pam Tillis; Jan Howard; Jeannie SeelySaturday May 167:00: Connie Smith (host); Jackie Lee; Mike Snider7:30: John Conlee (host); Logan Brill; Jesse McReynoldsIntermission8:15: Riders In The Sky (host); Charlie Nagatani; Love and Theft; Opry Square Dancers8:45: Lorrie Morgan (host); Dailey & VincentAll in all, it looks like a very nice weekend, with Friday looking the better of the two nights. And now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from five years ago, the weekend of May 14 & 15, 2010. The shows both nights took place at Two Rivers Baptist Church, across Briley Parkway from the Grand Ole Opry House. Friday May 147:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jesse McReynolds; Andy Griggs7:30: Lorrie Morgan (host); Jack Greene; Matt KennonIntermission8:15: Jimmy C Newman (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Holly Williams8:45: Jean Shepard (host); Jan Howard; Charlie Daniels BandSaturday May 157:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy C Newman; Matt Kennon7:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); Jean Shepard; Holly WilliamsIntermission8:15: Steve Wariner (host); Jack Greene; Riders In The Sky8:45: Ricky Skaggs (host); Charlie Louvin; The WhitesAnd from ten years ago, the weekend of May 13 & 14, 2005:Friday May 137:30: Porter Wagoner (host); Jimmy C Newman; Bobby Pinson8:00: John Conlee (host); Stu Phillips; Jean Shepard; Jason Aldean8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jeannie Seely; Elizabeth Cook9:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Joni Harms9:30: Diamond Rio (host); Connie Smith; Osborne BrothersSaturday May 141st show6:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Osborne Brothers; Dan Seals7:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Jimmy C Newman; Lane Turner7:30: John Conlee (host); Jim Ed Brown & The Browns; Trent Willmon8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Billy Walker; Jean Shepard; Joni Harms; Opry Square Dancers8:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Jack Greene; Alison Brown Quartet w/Joe Craven2nd show9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jeannie Seely; Dan Seals10:00: Porter Wagoner (host); Osborne Brothers; Billy Walker; Lane Turner10:30: Jean Shepard (host); Charlie Louvin; Trent Willmon; Opry Square Dancers11:00: John Conlee (host); Jim Ed Brown & The Browns; Alison Brown Quartet w/Joe Craven11:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Ray Pillow; Jack Greene; Joni HarmsFinally, for this week's featured line-up, it was 33 years ago this weekend, May 15, 1982 that Ricky Skaggs became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Ricky, of course, has kept the bluegrass sound alive at the Opry and since he joined and particuarly for the past decade, has been a very loyal member of the Opry and the Opry is certainly better off with him as a member. Here is the running order of the Grand Ole Opry from Saturday May 15, 1982, the night that Ricky Skaggs became a member: 1st show6:30: Mrs. GrissomsJack Greene (host): I Need Somebody Bad TonightBoxcar Willie: Fireball Mail/Train of Love/Hand Me Down My Walking Cane/Wreck of the Old 97/Orange Blossom Special/Rollin' In My Sweet Baby's Arms/Night Train to MemphisJack Greene: You Are My Treasure6:45: Rudy'sStonewall Jackson (host): Don't Be AngryStu Phillips: Have I Told You Lately That I Love You/You Win Again/Release MeJeannie Seely: I'm Almost ReadyStonewall Jackson: Me & You & A Dog Named Boo7:00: Shoney'sArchie Campbell (host): Make FriendsJim & Jesse: Then I'll Stop Going For YouCharlie Louvin: The House on the HillConnie Smith: I Just Had You On My MindJustin Tubb: Texas Dance Hall GirlArchie Campbell: Comedy7:30: Standard CandyErnest Tubb (host): Driving Nails in My CoffinJean Shepard: America, Tighten Up Your BeltBilly Walker: Welcome Back to My HeartRicky Skaggs: Cryin' My Heart Out Over You/Blue Moon of KentuckyCrook Brothers/Tennessee Travelers: LafayetteErnest Tubb: Waltz Across Texas8:00: Martha WhiteRoy Acuff (host): Wabash CannonballJimmy C Newman: (?)Charlie Walker: Don't Squeeze My SharmonTennessee Ernie Ford: Get A Little Dirt On Your Hands/Sixteen TonsRoy Acuff & Tennessee Ernie Ford: I'll Fly Away8:30: AcmeHank Snow (host): Paper Roses4 Guys: It's High Time to Get Back on My FeetRoy Drusky: Blues In My HeartWilburn Brothers: What You Think Is FairFruit Jar Drinkers: Sugar Tree StompHank Snow: I Keep Dreaming Of You All the Time2nd show9:30: Kellogg'sErnest Tubb (host): The Women Make A Fool Out of MeStonewall Jackson: Ol' Chunk of CoalErnie Ashworth: Memphis MemoryRicky Skaggs: Cryin' My Heart Out Over YouBill Carlisle: ElviraBoxcar Willie: Train MelodyErnest Tubb: Journey's End10:00: Little DebbieBilly Walker (host): Welcome Back to My HeartRay Pillow: My Love Belongs to YouVic Willis Trio: Faded LoveBilly Walker: Behind Closed Doors10:15: SunbeamArchie Campbell (host): Make FriendsJeannie Seely: You Don't Need Me, But You WillArchie Campbell: Comedy10:30: Martha WhiteRoy Acuff (host): Meeting in the AirBilly Grammer: The Prisoner's SongConnie Smith: Once A Day/Sing, Sing, Sing10:45: Beech-NutJimmy C Newman (host): La Cajun BandJean Shepard: America, Tighten Up Your BeltCrook Brothers/Tennessee Travelers: Arkansas TravelerCajun Country: Cajun Stripper11:00: Coca-ColaHank Snow (host): From A Jack to A KingCharlie Walker: T For TexasJustin Tubb: Travelin Singing ManFruit Jar Drinkers: Cracklin HenJan Howard: Beneath Still WatersKirk McGee: Victory Rag/Freight TrainHank Snow: I'm Moving On11:30: BamaMarty Robbins (host): Ribbon of Darkness4 Guys: Marie, The Dawn is BreakingRoy Drusky: There'll Never Be Anyone Else But You For MeWilburn Brothers: What You Think Is FairMarty Robbins: Don't Worry/Cool Water/That's All Right/18 Yellow Roses/I Don't Know Why/Devil Woman/Begging to You/Jumper Cable Man/Return to Me/Beyond the Reef/Good-Hearted Woman/El PasoThe show lasted until 12:45, thanks to the final Marty Robbins segment. I am pretty sure there were no complaints about this show.Finally, the Tuesday Night Opry on May 19 will feature the Opry's annual "Salute the Troops" show. This is a part of the Opry's month long celebration of our nation's troops and their families, which helps benefit the USO and MusiCorps. Highlighting the night will be the MusicCorps Wounded Warrior Band, who will be making their 2nd Opry appearance and they, along with others, will be greated with a red carpet arrival. 7:00: John Conlee; Craig Morgan7:30: Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers; Trace AdkinsIntermission8:15: MusicCorps Wounded Warrior Band; Vince Gill8:45: Kellie Pickler; Lee GreenwoodEnjoy the Opry this weekend!!!

Saturday, May 9, 2015

No, I did not forget. One of the legendary members of the Grand Ole Opry, and my personal favorite (which some people cannot understand), Hank Snow was born on this date 101 years ago today. He joined the Grand Ole Opry in January 1950 and passed away in December 1999, just two weeks before his 50th anniversary as an Opry member.

During his career, he had 88 singles on the country charts and recorded 45 studio albums. 7 of those singles reached #1. He had an amazing career and actually, a pretty amazing life. His autobiography is one of the best out there.

One of Hank's best friends was Marty Robbins. Here is a classic clip that I have posted in honor of Clarence Eugene Snow, the Singing Ranger Hank Snow.

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

The Grand Ole Opry has posted the line-ups for the two shows this weekend, the Friday Night Opry and Saturday's Grand Ole Opry.As far as Opry members this weekend, Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers are back for both nights. Larry continues his strong run of Opry appearances in 2015 and one again, Steve and Rudy are with him. It is certainly nice to have all three there and in a bit of unusual scheduling, they are leading off on Friday night. Joining them both nights are Opry members John Conlee and Mike Snider. On Friday night, Riders In The Sky, Del McCoury Band, Jesse McReynolds, Ricky Skaggs and The Whites on on board, while on Saturday night Jeannie Seely, Connie Smith and Bobby Osborne are listed. As far as guest artists, making her Opry debut will be Jessie James Decker. She has been around Nashville since 2009 and along with her husband, stars in an E! network reality series. Her husband, Eric Decker, is an NFL wide receiver. Joining her on Friday will be Mark Wills, Drake White and Point Of Grace. Besides appearing on the Opry on Friday night, Mark Wills will also be signing copies of his new CD in the Opry gift shop. On Saturday night, the big attraction is another guest appearance by Hunter Hayes. He is John Conlee's only guest in the final segment. Obviously, Hunter will have the appeal of the younger audience members. Also guesting on Saturday night will be Mickey Guyton, Kristian Bush and a repeat performance by Mark Wills. And yes, Saturday is looking a little thin with only 10 artists scheduled and I would expect that is the way it will end up. Friday May 87:00: Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers (host); Mark Wills; Mike Snider7:30: Riders In The Sky (host); Drake White; Del McCoury BandIntermission8:15: John Conlee (host); Jesse McReynolds; Jessie James Decker8:45: Ricky Skaggs (host); The Whites; Point Of GraceSaturday May 97:00: Jeannie Seely (host); Mickey Guyton; Mike Snider7:30: Connie Smith (host); Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press; Mark WillsIntermission8:15: Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers (host); Kristian Bush; Opry Square Dancers8:45: John Conlee (host); Hunter HayesAnd now, here is the posted Grand Ole Opry line-up from five years ago this weekend, May 7 & 8, 2010. Both of these shows were held at the Ryman Auditorium as it was the week after the flood in Nashville that seriously damaged the Grand Ole Opry House. The Opry would not return to the Opry House until the end of September. And with it being the first weekend shows after the flood, a couple of the bigger names, Brad Paisley and Alan Jackson came by that weekend to do the Opry. Friday May 77:00: Ricky Skaggs (host); Jean Shepard; George Hamilton IV; The Whites7:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jesse McReynolds; Janie FrickeIntermission8:15: Jim Ed Brown (host); Connie Smith; Dailey & Vincent8:45: Diamond Rio (host); Jan Howard; Mike Snider; Brad PaisleySaturday May 87:00: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Emily West7:30: Jean Shepard (host); Jack Greene; Connie SmithIntermission8:15: Jim Ed Brown (host); Stonewall Jackson; Lee Greenwood; Opry Square Dancers8:45: Mike Snider (host); Alan JacksonAnd from 10 years ago this weekend, May 6 & 7, 2005:Friday May 67:30: Porter Wagoner (host); John Conlee; Billy Walker; Jean Shepard8:00: Bill Anderson (host); Jeannie Seely; Jack Greene; Buddy Jewell8:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); Jimmy C Newman; Big Al Downing; Connie Smith9:00: Alison Krauss (host) & Union Station; Jerry Douglas; Sierra & Cody Hull; Tony Rice; Larry Sparks9:30: Ricky Skaggs (host); Jan Howard; Ryan Holliday; The WhitesSaturday May 71st show6:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); John Conlee; Connie Smith; John Anderson7:00: Alison Krauss (host); & Union Station; Jerry Douglas; The Whites; Sierra & Cody Hull; Larry Sparks; Ralph Stanley; Tony Rice; Patty Loveless8:00: Porter Wagoner (host); George Hamilton IV; Jean Shepard; Osborne Brothers; Jim Ed Brown; Opry Square Dancers8:30: Bill Anderson (host); Radney Foster; Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Vince Gill2nd show9:30: Jimmy Dickens (host); John Conlee; Connie Smith; John Anderson10:00: Porter Wagoner (host); The Whites; Sierra & Cody Hull; Alison Krauss & Union Station; Jerry Douglas10:30: Vince Gill (host); Jean Shepard; Tony Rice; Larry Sparks; Opry Square Dancers11:00: Bill Anderson (host); George Hamilton IV; Osborne Brothers; Patty Loveless11:30: Jim Ed Brown (host); w/Helen Cornelius; Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys; Radney FosterEven in 2005, the Opry was still putting on some good shows with full line-ups. For this week's featured line-up, it was on Saturday May 11, 1996 that Steve Wariner became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. It has been nice having Steve as a member of the Opry. He had been playing on the Opry for a number of years and first came to the Opry as a member of Dottie West's band. Since joining, Steve has generally appeared between 10-12 times each year. I can also tell you after meeting Steve, that he is one of the nicest guys around. Here is the running order for that show 19 years ago this weekend:1st show6:30: GHS StringsGrandpa Jones (host): Ball Headed End of the BroomJeanne Pruett: Satin SheetsGrandpa Jones: Kitty Klyde6:45: Joggin' In A JugMike Snider (host): Short Little Lulu/Clinch Mountain Backstip/Mississippi SawyerBill Carlisle: Is Zat You MyrtleMike Snider: Battle Cry of Freedom/Get Your Hand Off My Knee & Load the Cannon7:00: Shoney'sPorter Wagoner (host): Ol' SlewfootJean Shepard: Bouquet of RosesBilly Walker: Jesus Walks InSkeeter Davis: The End of the WorldRay Pillow: Darling, Take Pity on MePorter Wagoner: A Satisfied Mind/Big Wind7:30: Standard CandyBill Anderson (host): But You Know I Love YouChet Atkins: (?)/Have I Told You Lately That I Love YouSteve Wariner: Why Goodbye/Heart Trouble/Midnight Fire/What I Didn't Do/Lonely Women Make Good LoversBill Anderson & Steve Wariner: The Tips of My Fingers8:00: Martha WhiteJimmy Dickens (host): May the Bird of Paradise Fly Up Your NoseSweethearts Of The Rodeo: One More Night/Since I Found YouRiders In The Sky: Lonely RiverOpry Square Dance Band/Melvin Sloan Dancers: Durang's HornpipeJimmy Dickens: A Death in the Family8:30: KraftJim Ed Brown (host): FoolsJeannie Seely: Here Comes My BabyDel Reeves: Wild BloodThe Whites: Pins & Needles/Swing Down ChariotJim Ed Brown: The Old Lamplighter/Looking Back to See2nd show9:30: Dollar GeneralPorter Wagoner (host): Y'All ComeJeanne Pruett: Temporarily YoursOswald: What A Friend We Have In JesusSteve Wariner: (?)/A Woman LovesSteve Wariner & Rick Wayne: (?)10:00: Massy FergusonGrandpa Jones (host): The New VitamineJan Howard: Take Me As I Am Or Let Me GoGrandpa Jones: My Little Old Home Down in New Orleans10:15: Red Foot BathJimmy Dickens (host): Take An Old Cold TaterSweethearts Of The Rodeo: Mule Skinner BluesJimmy Dickens: We Could10:30: Purnell's SausageMike Snider (host): (?)Charlie Walker: Don't Squeeze My SharmonMike Snider: The Fur Coat10:45: FairfieldBill Anderson (host): Wild WeekendOpry Square Dance Band/Melvin Sloan Dancers: Acorn HillBill Anderson: The Corner of My Life11:00: Coca-ColaJeannie Seely (host): Speaking of the DevilJim Ed Brown: The Family BibleBilly Walker: When A Man Loves A Woman/Smokey PlacesRiders In The Sky: Miss Molly/Always Drink Upstream From the HerdJeannie Seely: Here Comes My Baby11:30: LorealJohnny Russell (host): Good Hearted WomanStu Phillips: Heart Over MindJean Shepard: Farewell PartyThe Whites: San Antonio Rose/Keep on the Sunny SideJohnny Russell: Act NaturallyEnjoy the Opry this weekend!!!

Saturday, May 2, 2015

Welcome to May!! As I do each month, here are the important and historical events that have taken place in the history of the Grand Ole Opry, or involving Opry members during the month of May. May 1, 1894: Sam McGee was born. Sam first appeared on the WSM Barn Dance in 1926. Over the years, he would appear with his brother Kirk and as part of the Fruit Jar Drinkers and Dixieliners. Kirk would remain with the Opry until he passed away in 1983. May 12, 1901: Benjamin Francis Ford was born in DeSoto, Missouri. Known professionally as Whitey Ford, the Duke of Paducah, this comedian joined the Opry in 1942. He remained an Opry member until 1959, when he left the show. During his time as a member, he usually appeared on the Prince Albert portion of the show. Although he left as a member, he would continue to appear on the show, especially during the annual Old-Timer's Night. He passed away in 1986, the same year that he was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame. May 30, 1909: Lewis Crook of the Crook Brothers was born. In addition to performing as part of the Crook Brothers, in his later years he played as part of the band backing up the square dancers. Lewis passed away in 1997. May 1, 1910: One time Grand Ole Opry manager Ott Devine was born. May 17, 1912: Grand Ole Opry announcer and WSM staff member Grant Turner was born. He joined the staff at WSM on D-Day, June 6, 1944. In addition to his duties at WSM, Grant became an announcer at the Opry. He would remain the Opry's primary announcer until his death on October 19, 1991, just hours after finishing his work on the Friday Night Opry. He was with the Opry for 47 years and is a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame. May 30, 1912: Alcyone Bate Beasley was born. She was there when it all started in 1925, performing with her father's group, Dr. Humphrey Bate and His Possum Hunters. After Dr. Bate's death in 1936, Alcyone worked to keep the Possum Hunters together, but it was a struggle as the Opry moved to a more modern sound. By the 1960s, the Possum Hunters had been merged with the Crook Brothers. In the 1970s, she went into semi-retirement after over 40 years of performing on the Opry. After that, she became a fixture at the Opry's annual reunion shows. She passed away in October 1982.May 9, 1914: The legendary Hank Snow, the Singing Ranger, was born in Liverpool, Nova Scotia. Hank joined the Opry in January 1950 and would remain an Opry member until his death in December 1999, just weeks short of his 50th anniversary as an Opry member. In 1979 he was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame. May 1, 1926: Uncle Dave Macon joins the cast of the WSM Barn Dance. He would remain a part of the Opry for the next quarter century, making his final Grand Ole Opry appearance on March 1, 1952. When he joined the Barn Dance, he was considered the first professional performer to join that had a national reputation. He always considered himself just an old country boy. In 1966 he was one of the early inductees into the Country Music Hall of Fame. May 25, 1936: Grand Ole Opry member Tom T Hall was born in Kentucky. Much like Abe Lincoln, also born in Kentucky, Tom T was born in a log cabin. The Country Music Hall of Fame member originally joined the Opry on January 1, 1971. In March 1974 he left the cast when it moved to the new Grand Ole Opry House, however he rejoined the Opry in 1980. As many of you know, Tom T has not appeared on the Opry in decades. May 31, 1938: Donald Lytle was born in Greenfield, Ohio. Better known by his stage name of Johnny Paycheck, in the early part of his career, he was a band member for Ray Price, Porter Wagoner, George Jones and Faron Young. In 1997, thanks to some help by his friend Johnny Russell, he became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. However, just a few years after joining, his health went into a period of decline and his performing ended. He passed away in February 2003.May 2, 1948: Grand Ole Opry member Larry Gatlin was born. Along with his brothers Steve and Rudy, he joined the Opry on Christmas Day 1976. In recent years, Larry has become a regular performer on the Opry, and is a regular host of the Opry Country Classics Show that takes place in the Spring and Fall. May 13, 1950: Mother Maybelle Carter and the Carter Sisters, Helen, June and Anita, became members of the Grand Ole Opry. When the Carters joined, they also brought along their guitar player, Chet Atkins, who would continue on with a Hall of Fame career as a musician and as a record company executive. Over the years, as the Carter Sisters moved on, Mother Maybelle would remain with the Opry. Later in her Opry career, and much like other veterans such as Kirk and Sam McGee, she would complain to the Opry management about her poorly timed spots, limited appearances and a general lack of respect. She stayed with the Opry until later in the 1960s, when she left to became a part of Johnny Cash's road show. May 16, 1953: Jimmy Dean makes his debut on the Grand Ole Opry. He was introduced by Opry member Carl Smith. Although Jimmy would never become an Opry member, he would continue to make Opry appearances throughout his career, including appearing the night Jimmy Dickens was honored for 50 years of Opry membership. May 23, 1953: Future Opry member Jim Reeves appears on the Opry for the first time. He sang "Mexican Joe."May 21, 1955: Opry member Webb Pierce quit the Opry. He was an Opry member for just three years, but in that time he quickly realized that he could make more money on the road, rather than being in Nashville every Saturday night. May 11, 1957: The Everly Brothers, Don and Phil, make their first appearance on the Opry. They, along with a few others, were brought in as members in an attempt to capture the younger crowd that was turning to rock n' roll. They were only with the Opry a year before moving on. In 2001, they were elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame. May 18, 1957: A week after the Everly Brothers appeared, the Kershaw Brothers, Rusty and Doug, made their debut appearance on the Opry. May 20, 1958: Don Gibson became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Don was with the Opry until December 1964 when he, along with others, was fired from the cast for not making the required number of yearly appearances. Don would eventually rejoin the Opry, however even after he came back, his appearances were limited. In 2001 he became a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame. May 1, 1960: The WLS National Barn Dance, one of the Opry's early competitors, came to an end as WLS in Chicago changed formats. The Barn Dance had started a year earlier than the Opry, on April 19, 1924.May 13, 1967: Merle Haggard makes his first appearance on the Opry. Former Opry manager Hal Durham would later say that the girls were crazy about Merle. While never joining the cast, Merle would make a few more Opry appearances over the years. May 8, 1968: Grand Ole Opry founder, George D. Hay passed away at his home in Virginia Beach, Virginia. He had started the WSM Barn Dance in November 1925 and it grew into the Grand Ole Opry. After he started the show, he would clash with WSM management, specifically Harry and David Stone over the direction and management of the show. He had always wanted to keep the Opry "close to the ground" while the Stone's wanted a more professional show. We know who won that battle!! Over the years, he would suffer from various health issues and would see his influence and role at the Opry and WSM greatly reduced. By the time he retired from WSM, he was basically just an Opry announcer. On Saturday May 11, which was the next Opry show following his death, Grant Turner paid tribute to him, saying, "He called himself the Solemn Old Judge. If he was solemn, it was only in the face of those who thought to change or corrupt the purity of the barn-dance ballads he sought to preserve. We, the performers and friends of the Grand Ole Opry, salute the memory of one whose influence is felt on the stage of the Opry tonight-the Solemn Old Judge, George D. Hay." May 10, 1969: Stonewall Jackson rejoined the cast of the Grand Ole Opry. Stonewall had been fired in December 1964 for failing to make the required number of Opry appearances. Stonewall remains an Opry member to this day, however he rarely appears on the show. A few years ago, Stonewall sued the Opry management for age discrimination, a case that was eventually settled out of court. May 1, 1971: Grand Ole Opry member Cousin Jody made his final appearance on the Opry. Performing for many years as Tex Summey, he came to the Opry in 1937 with Roy Acuff. He later performed with Pee Wee King and his Golden West Cowboys and with Lonzo and Oscar. May 13, 1972: Gene Watson made his first guest appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. While never becoming an Opry member, Gene has made regular appearances over the years, so many in fact that many ask why he isn't a member. May 22, 1977: The Grand Ole Opry held a special Sunday matinee show that was dedicated to their Canadian fans. The following day was Victoria Day, a national holiday in Canada. May 11, 1979: Lester Flatt passed away in Nashville at the age of 64. He had been in declining health for a number of years. After he split with Earl Scruggs, Lester stayed with a more traditional bluegrass sound and formed the Nashville Grass. As Lester moved forward with his solo career, he would reach legendary status among bluegrass fans, who considered Lester second only to Bill Monroe. While on the Opry, he would always host the Martha White segment, who was a long time sponsor for Flatt & Scruggs. May 15, 1982: Ricky Skaggs joined the cast of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be his 33rd year as a member. It was always Ricky's dream to become a member of the Opry and he has taken his Opry membership seriously. As Ricky said, "I don't ever, ever want to get to the point where I don't come and play the Opry, where I feel like I'm too good to play the Opry. Mr. Acuff said that I would do that. He said, 'You'll get so big you'll do like all the rest of them.' And I said, you don't know me. You just watch me and see, I'm not made that way. I didn't join the Opry for that." Yes, there have been a few bumps in the road but overall, Ricky has done a great job at the Opry. And since the death of Bill Monroe, Ricky has worked hard to keep the sound of bluegrass music alive at the Opry. May 26, 1984: Onie Wheeler, a member of Roy Acuff's Smoky Mountain Boys, died of a heart attack while performing on the "Grand Ole Gospel Time" radio progam that followed the Friday Night Opry. May 3, 1986: Opry member Barbara Mandrell returned to the Opry for the first time since being involved in a near-fatal traffic accident. May 4, 1991: Travis Tritt made his first guest appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. He would eventually join the cast in February 1992. Sorry to say, but Travis seems to have lost his way to the Opry House as the last time he performed on the Opry was in 2007. May 1, 1993: Charley Pride became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be his 22nd year as an Opry member. Charley has appeared on the Opry since the late 1960s and he had been asked several times to become a member prior to him finally accepting the invitation. He always said that living in the Dallas area and having a heavy touring schedule made it difficult to be on the Opry on a regular basis. In 1993 he finally felt that the time was right and on the night he joined, he was very emotional. May 11, 1996: Steve Wariner became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be his 19th year as an Opry member. May 31, 1997: Lee Ann Womack made her first appearance on the Opry. While never becoming an Opry member, Lee Ann has continued to make Opry guest appearances over the years. May 9, 1998: Grand Ole Opry member Teddy Wilburn made his final appearance on the Opry. Teddy and his brother Doyle had first appeared on the Opry in 1940 before being forced to leave the show due to child labor laws. They would return and join the cast, performing as a duo until Doyle died in 1982. After that, Teddy would continue as a solo act, although his Opry appearances would reduce over time. Health issues forced Teddy to retire from the Opry and he passed away in November 2003. May 15, 1998: Opry member Johnny Paycheck made his final appearance on the Grand Ole Opry, as health issues forced Johnny to retire from performing. May 28, 1999: Future Opry member Brad Paisley made his Opry debut. Brad would make numerous guest appearances until finally becoming an Opry member on February 17, 2001. May 5, 2001: Blake Shelton made his debut as a guest on the Opry. In the fall of 2010, Blake would join the cast. May 21, 2006: Opry member Billy Walker, along with his wife Bettie and two members of his band, were killed in a traffic accident on their way back to Nashville, after making an appearance in Alabama. Billy had been an Opry member since 1960. May 19, 2007: Porter Wagoner celebrated his 50th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. He was joined on that night by Dolly Parton, Patty Loveless, Buck Trent and Marty Stuart, who hosted the televised segment. Sadly, Porter was already in declining health and he would pass away in October of that year. This was also the last time Porter and Dolly would share the stage together. May 10, 2008: Carrie Underwood joined the cast of the Grand Ole Opry. This will be her 7th year as an Opry member. Even with her career as big as it has become, she has always found time for the Opry and usually can be counted on to fulfill her 10 appearances each year. While 10 may not seem like a lot, it is more than many of fellow Opry members make. On the night that Carrie joined the cast, Garth Brooks flew in and did the honors. May 30, 2009: Comedian, actor and banjo player Steve Martin made his debut on the Opry. He led an all-star band in playing, "Foggy Mountain Breakdown." If you have never heard or seen Steve playing the banjo, he is outstanding and takes it very seriously. May 1, 2010: The Grand Ole Opry House sustained major damage when the Cumberland River flooded after heavy rains hit the Nashville area. The Opry House, Acuff Theater, Opry Museum and Opry Mills Mall were all closed due to the damage. It was not until September that the Opry was able to return to the Opry House and the Acuff Theater was torn down. The Museum has ever reopened and it took years for the Mall to be repaired. When the Opry returned to the Opry House, Bill Anderson was the first one to be back on the stage. That was fitting as he was the last to perform on the final Saturday night prior to the flood. May 3, 2011: Alabama made a guest appearance on the Opry, 29 years after they last performed on the show. They were joined on stage by Brad Paisley and sang, "Old Alabama" and "Tennessee River." They have been back several times since. May 18, 2013: Retired Opry member Barbara Mandrell made a surprise appearance at the Opry. She did not sing, but she came out on stage and waved to the audience.

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About Me

I am a nationally recognized independent historian of the Grand Ole Opry. In addition to being the publisher and writer of Fayfare's Opry Blog, I have also researched Opry information for numerous authors and interested Opry fans. A resident of Canton, Ohio, I have attended hundreds of Grand Ole Opry shows since my first visit to Nashville in 1973. I can be contacted via email at bfay54@gmail.com